Introduction to Chess Sets
So you want to buy a chess set...
To play chess you need:
- a chessboard
- a set of chess pieces
- a chess clock (optional)
A chessboard is a 8x8 square. Each of the 64 squares is alternately dark or light (traditionally black/white, but there are many different colour schemes). Files are lettered a to h, ranks are numbered 1 to 8. If letters ad numbers are included on the board, the "a1" square should be dark, otherwise the board is incorrect.
A set of chessmen should contain 32 pieces: a king, a queen, 2 rooks, 2 knights, 2 bishops and 8 pawns for both white and black (white and black might actually be different colours). Some sets include an extra queen for each side, which might be handy in some games involving pawn promotions. If you wish to buy a set containing extra queens, make sure that it does before purchase, as not all sets include them.
For more serious gaming a chess clock is needed. It measures time left for each player to perform his or her moves. It is not necessary for a casual game, but is absolutely required in any sort of chess tournament.
Some chess sets also include a box or a bag to carry the pieces. If a set doesn't include one you might buy one separately if you want to.
Things to consider:
- What will be the usage of the set? (casual playing/tournament/a house ornament/a gift)
- Is there a high chance of it getting damaged?
- Where it will be used? (home/travel)
- How much do you want to spend?
If you have decided what exactly are you looking for, feel free to look around. Especially the discount section might be of interest. Happy hunting!
